There are lots of different skincare techniques that are supposedly great for the skin. Some of these are pseudoscience and some actually work. Dry brushing also known as garshana originates from the Ayurvedic traditions and is a method of physical exfoliation using a stiff-bristled brush across the surface of the skin. It’s performed on dry skin with a dry brush and is supposed to improve texture of the skin and blood circulation. But does it actually do anything?

If nothing else it will exfoliate the skin as the bristles slough away dead skin cells and help de-congest pores and increase cell turnover. So far so good, who doesn’t want to keep blackheads and pimples away? As you know I believe in exfoliation because it helps skin products to absorb better and massages the skin too. But when the body is treated as a whole this massaging effect is said to stimulates the lymphatic system.This system keeps the body healthy by flushing away fats, bacteria from times of illness and water-retention so dry brushing is thought to help with this, although you don’t really need to dry brush to do this. Drinking lots of water will do that anyway!

This brings me on to the question of cellulite which dry brushing is supposed to help. It won’t remove it and the results from brushing are purely down to localized swelling and increased blood flow from the massaging.. So for cellulite I would recommend a treatment like Morpheus8 RF Microneedling which will target the problem of collagen and structure at a deeper level

So if you want to temporarily smooth skin and exfoliate while getting that tingly massage feeling then dry brushing is great. To do it start at the feet and ankles, working your way up to the arms in gentle, circular motions. Doing it once week at first and not overdoing it is key until you get used to the sensation. Do it before a shower so you can wash away the dead skin cells.

It’s not recommended for people with rosacea, psoriasis or cystic acne as the skin is already sensitive and inflamed and brushing can make it worse. As with all things exercise caution and stop if the skin becomes irritated.

Come in and see us at Invigorate Advanced Aesthetics in Centennial, Colorado to get on the Morpheus8 RF Microneedling schedule.